Low Vision Aids For Reading

Reading often is one of the most difficult challenges for visually impaired people. Many people with low vision give up reading altogether, because what used to be an enjoyable, effortless activity now requires thought, preparation and a lot of adjustment. In short, reading is just no fun anymore.

Magnifiers. Hand-held magnifiers are among the most affordable low vision devices for reading, and some are illuminated to make print even more visible. Other magnifiers that are mounted on height-adjustable stands or supported by a band that hangs from your neck also are available.

Reading glasses. Special high-power reading glasses can help a person with low vision read small print. These are available in single vision designs or as bifocals. Though these stronger-than-normal reading glasses take some getting used to (you have to position your face closer to reading material), a low vision specialist can demonstrate the best way to use them.

Reading telescopes. These low vision devices often are mounted on the lenses of eyeglasses and provide high magnification while allowing the wearer to view reading material from a normal distance. Again, some training is needed to use these devices properly, but reading telescopes often are very helpful. Hand-held versions also are available.

Video magnifiers. These desktop devices include a camera lens that displays highly magnified images on a video monitor or computer screen. You can sit as close to the screen as necessary and adjust the magnification, brightness, contrast and color of the display to your liking.

Portable electronic magnifiers. Also available are portable electronic devices that resemble an iPad or other lightweight tablet computer. You can hold this device in front of reading material and a magnified view appears on the LED screen.

Some low vision devices for reading require a prescription from your eye doctor because they are custom-made for your particular needs. It's wise to consult your eye care professional before buying even nonprescription magnifiers to learn which low vision devices will work best for you, based on your activities and degree of vision impairment.

Portable magnifiers such as the Amigo HD by Enhanced Vision can enlarge print for easier reading. You can use these devices at home or while you're out and about. [Enlarge]

Good Lighting Is Essential

For many people with low vision, increasing the amount and type of ambient light can greatly improve reading ability. If you know someone who is visually impaired, check the adequacy of the lighting in their home — particularly in their favorite reading areas.

Use the brightest light bulbs recommended for light fixtures. Purchase lamps with three-way sockets that allow the use of bulbs that can be increased to 150 watts for reading.

Natural sunlight is the best lighting for reading. Arrange furniture so the person with low vision can sit near a window for daytime reading. For artificial lighting, purchase "full-spectrum" light bulbs. These bulbs emit light that more closely mimics natural sunlight than regular incandescent bulbs.